San Antonio Coronavirus Response: Pre-Approved Testing Site For COVID-19 Now Open

From the City of San Antonio:

March 18, 2020

Pre-Approved Testing Site for COVID-19 now open

SAN ANTONIO (March 18, 2020) — The City of San Antonio, Bexar County and the South Texas Regional Advisory Council have expanded testing for COVID-19 with the opening of a large Pre-Approved Testing Site at Freeman Coliseum. The site has the capacity to administer up to 16 tests per hour. COVID-19 testing is available only for individuals who have been pre-approved by a doctor, first responders, healthcare workers and VIA bus drivers. Individuals without pre-approval and a scheduled appointment will not be allowed on the premises. Individuals without pre-approval and a scheduled appointment will not be allowed on the premises.

“This will allow us to do more testing for those who need it – and that’s the key: doctors will determine who needs the test,” said Mayor Ron Nirenberg. “For those who are pre-approved, we have tests ready.”

“The County’s Freeman Coliseum has been a symbol of strength in our community and always stands ready to assist. Most recently, the Coliseum served as the hurricane Harvey logistics and staging hub for statewide efforts. Once again, the County and Freeman Coliseum are here to answer the call,” said County Judge Nelson Wolff.

Currently, all confirmed COVID-19 cases are attributable to travel outside Texas or close contact with someone who traveled. Residents who believe they have been exposed to the virus and have symptoms, should call their physician or an urgent care clinic for an assessment, and if appropriate, a referral. Those who cannot afford a doctor’s visit may call Metro Health’s COVID-19 hotline at (210) 207-5779.

Who is eligible for Pre-Approved Testing?

1. First responders
2. Healthcare workers
3. VIA bus drivers
4. Individuals who think they have been exposed and have symptoms, with a doctor’s pre-approval.

ALL individuals must have an appointment. Visit www.SanAntonio.gov for more information.

FOUR SIMPLE WAYS TO GET COVID-19 ALERTS

1. Download the Ready South Texas app, available in the iTunes and Google Play stores, to receive updates on the COVID-19 situation in San Antonio.
2. Text COSAGOV to 55000 to receive SMS text message updates.
3. Bookmark www.sanantonio.gov
4. Follow @COSAGOV on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Public service announcements on social distancing, prevention and testing are available in English, Spanish and American Sign Language here.

Posters, guidance letters and other materials are available at this link.

This press release was produced by the City of San Antonio. The views expressed here are the author’s own.